Colorado is the latest Power Four school to cut ties with its official NIL group. This decision comes as athletic departments across the country prepare for the effects of the upcoming settlement between House v. NCAA, which is expected to be finalized later this year.
“We are restructuring our NIL procedures in order to prepare for the upcoming changes,” Colorado athletic director Rick George wrote in an email to fans Monday morning.
This comes after a season that saw the Buffaloes return to prominence in the College football Aesthetic view. Under the leadership of Deion SandersThe team finished 2024 with a 9-4 record, narrowly missing the Big 12 championship game and making its first full season start since 2016.
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This development is bound to help Colorado build a more stable program with a significant financial infusion. With Sanders in charge and with a strong revenue-sharing formula in place, fans can expect the program to remain competitive over the next two years.
How much will Colorado be able to distribute to athletes?
The House v. The NCAA is pioneering a transformative era for college athletics. When it is finally ratified and operational, it will enable schools to compensate athletes directly through revenue sharing, with an annual cap of $22 million covering all athletic programs.
Additionally, athletes retain their ability to generate income through nothing deals. Schools may also continue to partner with collegiate groups to distribute funds beyond the announced cap of $22 million. Together, these measures promise to reshape the financial landscape of college sports.
This landmark decision represents a departure from traditional restrictions, allowing players to receive payments directly from their institutions – something that was previously prohibited. Rick George believes the development will be beneficial to Colorado For many reasons.
“I feel that these changes will not only keep CU the gold standard in supporting student-athletes, but will also make it easier for fans like you to invest in our student-athletes at a time when it is critical,” George wrote.
George's email Monday provided new guidance for donors interested in supporting Colorado athletics financially amid the operational transition. Donors are now encouraged to contribute directly to the Buff Club's AD Excellence Fund or Athletic Excellence Fund.
These new channels make engaging with outside groups, like the 5430 Alliance, unnecessary, streamlining the process for those looking to invest in the future of the program. It also gives the athletic department a good level of control over athlete compensation, ensuring some ease and stability across the board.
Edited by Joseph Schiefelbein
